Sunsuits

Sunsuits with a UPF50+ rating by Sposh and Lion in the Sun are ideal UV protective swimwear for young children.  They are available from The Beach Factory in either a soft, comfortable polyester / cotton mix or practical quick drying nylon.  Both types also include Lycra to help them retain their shape.

All our sunsuits have a matching, or co-ordinating, legionnaire cap to maximize sun protection for the face and neck.

These sunsuits have easily operated wide toothed zips which are enhanced by a removable fabric tag that helps a child reach behind to undress themself.  The smallest sizes include crutch poppers (or poppers down the side) to simplify dressing and undressing a baby or toddler.

Why Wear a Sunsuit?

• Sun protection for children is important (even in the UK) because young skin is thin and can burn in just 10 minutes.  The British Association of Dermatologists has warned of a link between exposure early in life and the risk of developing skin cancers as an adult.
• A UPF50+ sunsuit blocks 98% of harmful UV light and is a visible, constant and reliable sun protection for young children - can you be sure that sun cream has been applied uniformly when the kids are squirming and trying to run off?
• A sunsuit does not wash away, so children will continue to be protected while they are in the water and however long they stay there.
• Less sunscreen is required which reduces the risk of adverse reactions resulting from the absorption of chemical sunscreens through the skin.
• Unlike a T-shirt our sunsuits have a high neck so that this vulnerable part of the body is protected at all times.
• A shirt balloons in the water which makes it awkward and tiring for swimming.  A wet T-shirt is heavy and only offers limited UV protection.
• Introducing sun sense early in their life helps to ensure that kids adopt good practice later.
• The bright colours also make it easier to identify your kids both on the beach and in the water.

Poly Cotton Lycra vs. Nylon Lycra

• Either sunsuit type can be worn in or out of the water and will offer the same level of protection.
• Poly cotton is thicker, feels soft and clings less to the skin so making these sunsuits ideal for wearing whenever the sun shines: whether at the beach, poolside, playing in the park, or just cruising around in a buggy.  However they dry more slowly than nylon which can lead to children feeling cold if they are wearing a damp suit in a cool breeze.
• Nylon lycra sunsuits are lighter when wet and faster drying which makes them very practical for children who love being in and out of the water.  They do not absorb and evaporate sweat like poly cotton and so a child wearing a dry suit might feel hot.
• Ultimately it comes down to personal preference.

Caring for your sunsuit

• Hand wash the sunsuit in warm water when necessary.  Avoid harsh detergents that can cause lycra to deteriorate and rinse thoroughly.
• Allow the sunsuit to drip-dry out of direct sunlight and never leave it wet and rolled up.
• Please note that chlorinated pools will cause colours to fade over time.  To prolong the suit's appearance we therefore recommend rinsing it thoroughly in fresh cold water immediately after each use.
• Each item has fully detailed care instructions attached.